Possessing a controlled substance remains illegal in Illinois. Possessing narcotics or illegal drugs can result in both state and federal charges. State and local prosecutors aggressively pursue such charges and a conviction can have a devastating impact on your life. Your situation may result in incarceration, financial penalties, a permanent criminal record, disqualification from employment, being denied professional licenses, and possibly being denied student aid. It is crucial that you retain an experienced lawyer to handle such a case. I am a Peoria criminal defense attorney handling drug cases throughout the area. Contact my office today to schedule an initial consultation.
Peoria drug possession lawyer representing defendants charged with either a misdemeanor or a felony
Illinois drug possession cases will vary depending on the amount and type of drug involved. Narcotics are classified according to “schedules.” The more addictive or dangerous a substance is then the more severe the potential penalty. Possessing schedule I narcotics, such as methamphetamine, heroin, or cocaine, will result in felony charges. Possessing a lower class substance may only result in misdemeanor charges. If enough of a substance is possessed the defendant may be charged with drug trafficking.
The first step in a possession case will depend on whether one is charged with a misdemeanor or a felony. If the charge is more serious then the prosecution must first present the case, either at a preliminary hearing or before a Grand Jury, to establish probable cause and bring charges in the Circuit Court. An arraignment will then be held and a trial date will be set. Between arraignment and trial the defendant can file Motions with the Court to request that the drugs not be allowed in evidence due to either police misconduct or mishandling by law enforcement. If such a Motion has merit then the case may end in dismissal. If trial is necessary then the defendant has the option of having the matter heard by a jury. The process of defending possession charges is complicated and it is strongly suggested that you contact an attorney as soon as possible.
I am a Peoria criminal defense lawyer representing those charged with drug trafficking. I will gain an understanding of the situation and determine whether police violated your Fourth or Fifth Amendment rights when they found narcotics. I will quickly file any necessary Motions to Suppress Evidence and will aggressively question the arresting officers at an evidentiary hearing. I will protect your rights throughout the process and take your case to trial if necessary. I understand that you are facing a serious situation and we will take it seriously. Contact my office today.
In addition to Peoria, I service the cities of Bloomington, Eureka, Galesburg, Morton, Normal, Pekin, Springfield, and Washington. I also serve the counties of Fulton, Knox, LaSalle, Marshall, Mason, McLean, Putnam, Rock Island, Schuyler, Stark, Tazewell, and Woodford. I also handle federal cases in Urbana.
Peoria criminal attorney staying in communication with those facing possession charges
Being convicted for drug possession will impact your future. This potential impact means that you are justifiably concerned. I provide a level of communication which I feel exceeds that of other attorneys and I will be available to address your questions. I regularly provide clients with my cell phone number, can be reached via text message, and quickly respond to emails. I believe that everyone is entitled to the highest level of respect and this is our promise to each and every client I serve.